The RegTech Africa Conference & Exhibition is set to welcome the Startup World Cup Regional Competition to Abuja in 2026, marking a significant moment for Africa’s innovation landscape.
According to Nigeria Startup News, the announcement confirms that applications are now open, allowing startups from across the continent to compete for a place on the global stage. The initiative represents one of the world’s most prominent pitch competitions, with winners progressing towards a US$1m investment prize.
In addition to the main Abuja event, a separate Nigeria regional competition is scheduled for 23–24 May in Lagos. This preliminary stage will help spotlight promising early and growth-stage businesses before the broader African showcase. Organisers and collaboration partners view the dual events as a catalyst for strengthening the continent’s expanding startup ecosystem, offering founders direct access to global venture capital firms and seasoned technology leaders.
The initiative is designed to increase international visibility for Nigerian startups and encourage deeper cross-border partnerships. By creating a more connected entrepreneurship network, the partners aim to support the development of scalable solutions that can contribute to Africa’s digital and financial transformation.
The RegTech Africa Conference, which operates as a social enterprise, remains a major convening point for regulators, policymakers, decision makers and industry executives. The annual event plays an important role in promoting regulatory technology as a driver of inclusive growth, innovation and sustainable development across the region. Its platform encourages dialogue, collaboration and practical solutions for strengthening financial and digital ecosystems.
Startup World Cup, organised by Pegasus Tech Ventures, is recognised globally for connecting innovation hubs around the world. The competition includes more than 70 regional finals, a semi-final round, and a grand finale held in San Francisco. During the African regional event, 10 shortlisted startups will pitch before a panel of investors and serial entrepreneurs. The winner will advance to the global competition where they will compete for the US$1m investment prize.
Participants stand to gain from opportunities such as direct exposure to global VCs, one-on-one investor meetings, mentorship, and the potential to secure funding deals. Eligibility extends to startups at any stage, across all sectors, provided their solutions are scalable and rooted in technology. Both African firms and international startups with a strong Africa focus are encouraged to enter.
The 2026 edition of the RegTech Africa Conference will be held from 20–22 May at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, positioning the continent’s entrepreneurs at the heart of a global innovation spotlight.
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